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Travel

The Ultimate Guide To Goa: The Party Capital Of India

By Nishtha Gandhi

Updated - Sept. 28, 2022 30 min read

Goa is a well-known beach paradise and the party city of India. People from all over the world travel to India to witness Goa's beauty especially at this time of the year i.e. the end when it's lit because of festivities and ragers. This guide to places to visit in Goa will help you filter out the places you can go to while you're here for a short period or if you are here for a longer time. Places to visit in North Goa are more commercial and crowded while the places to visit in South Goa are most serene and historically relevant. We hope you find what you are looking for through this listicle. .

 

Best Beaches in Goa

1. Querim Beach

The Querim Beach also known as the Keri Beach is located on the North of Arambol. It is not the best-painted beach by the locals because it is located in one of the most northernmost points of GOA. But the white sand beach is an epitome of serenity. The soft white sandy shore of the Keri Beach is perfect for enjoying a leisurely day. Keri will absolutely capture one’s heart. Behind the beach, a small pastoral village is a wonderful place for you to explore. Keri Beach is fringed with green paddy fields, temples, giant banyans and exotic birds, bringing its visitors as close to nature as it possibly can. One of the best beaches in Goa to have some relaxing time and indulge in love and serenity.

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Location: Mapusa

Highlights: Terekhol Fort, Panoramic Views, Shacks, Surfing

 

2. Arambol Beach

Beautiful and serene, this beach has a boho vibe to it that doesn’t exist in any of the Goa beaches anymore. It provides solitude for the tourists that are looking for some alone time. It is comparatively left untouched as compared to the other mainstream beaches in the North of Goa. It extends to over 16 km and has two beaches. The main beach is named Harmal Beach, and it is located in the northernmost area of Goa. You'll be awestruck to witness one of the best beaches in Goa.

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Location: Pernem taluk of North Goa

Highlights: Shacks, Resorts, Scenic Views, Perfect For Yoga And Meditation

 

3. Ashvem Beach

Ashvem beach is a small flat sandy beach located to the north of Morjim. Most of the tourists can be found on the southern part of the beach. The northern end has a small lagoon with a rivulet flowing across the beach. The beach is located 21 kms. from Mapusa and 33 kms. from Panaji. The lagoon lined with mangrove and palm trees on both the sides empties tself into the sea. If you are patient enough and lucky, you can spot some birds who come to the lagoon during low tide to feed upon fish and crustaceans.

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Location: Panjim

Highlights: Less Crowded, Cleaner Beach, Ideal For Swimming, Shacks

 

4. Morjim Beach

Morjim beach in Goa is bound by the mouth of the Chapora river to the south, and the seamless beginnings of Ashvem beach to the north. Morjim remains a fairly quiet beach, with huts and shacks scattered along the sand at the south end, and set back amongst the palms and casuarina trees to the north. Morjim has been quoted as ‘Little Russia’ due to the number of Russians living there. Being one of the most popular beaches in Goa, it has become every tourist's favorite one.

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Location: Northern bank of the Chapora River Estuary

Highlights: White sand, Clean water, Less crowded, and Great Shacks

 

5. Vagator Beach

Vagator Beach is located 22 kms from the capital city of Panaji. It is one of the most serene beaches in Goa that remains clean and peaceful since it is a relatively offbeat destination. This crescent-shaped beach that has golden sand and glittering water, is divided into two parts – North Vagator Beach or the Big Beach and Ozran Beach or the Little Beach. For a laid-back vacation, Vagator is certainly the ideal place to be at since it offers everything, right from partying at luxury hotels to trying adventure sports for an adrenaline rush. The beach is lined with shacks and restaurants where you can stay and try out the local seafood cuisine.You have to visit Thalassa and Antares when you are on the Vagator beach. They have the best sunset views and food. If you're looking for one of the best beaches in Goa - this one will surely not disappoint you as you'll be awestruck by its mesmserising sunset.

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Location: Near Anjuna

Highlights: Sunsets, Ideal For A Swim, Rock Beach, Exquisite Restaurants

 

6. Anjuna Beach

Anjuna was made famous by the ‘flower power and peace’ generation of the sixties and early seventies. And later by the ‘trance’ parties. Located about 18 kms from Panaji, the beach is known for its breeze-catching palms, soft sand, and the unusual rocky formation overlying a cove of whitish sand. and black rock that juts into the sea. Curlies is a very famous shack on Anjuna Beach. And every Tuesday, Shiva Valley holds rave parties and attracts many tourists. Anjuna is also famous for the Wednesday night flee market that sells all kinds of hippie and beach clothes

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Location: Bardez

Highlights: Hippie Culture, Clean Beaches, Beautiful Resorts - Sea facing, Cafes

 

Best Nightclubs In Goa

1. LPK Waterfront

Love Passion Karma is one of the most exotic clubs in Goa. The name of the club rightly describes the ambiance and the interiors of the club. The club is surrounded by terracotta statues and structures that give it a very exotic and off-beat look. The beauty of the club is enchanting. There is a hill right across the river, over the bridge where you can see a lit “LOVE PASSION KARMA” written. The architecture is historical with music that is post-modern. Saturday is the best day to hit LPK for a great way to spend your Saturday night in Goa. It's one of the best night clubs in North Goa - we just can't deny that!

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LOCATION – On the banks of river Nerul, Candolim.
TIMINGS – 9:30 pm to 3:30 am

 

2. Club Cabana

This club is situated on the top of a hill. Very closely located to the Anjuna’s Saturday Market, it is completely lit with neon lights. It has multi-level dance floors as well as a swimming pool next to the bar where you can sit with your feet dip in water and a drink in hand. This club is called the night-club in the sky. The DJs will have you grooving to everything from disco beats to techno tunes. You park your cars in the parking and a jeep takes you up the hill where the club is. It is one of the best nightclubs in Goa after LPK. If you go to Goa and don’t visit Club Cabana, then your trip is half-wasted. Cubana is definitely one of the best clubs in Goa.

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LOCATION – Close to Anjuna’s Saturday Market
TIMINGS – 9:30 pm to 4 am

 

3. Water’s Beach Lounge & Grill

This lounge facing the beach is one for the high- end parties and celebrities. If you love partying with the rich and famous, this is where you hit. With a scenic view of the Ozran Beach on Vagator, crazy sundowner parties with the best sunset views, amazing cocktails, good crowd and delicious food, Water Beach Lounge & Grill ranks as one of the top places to party in Goa. The best of Dj’s play the best of music here, This is place is definitely not worth missing. Clubbing in Goa is incomplete without going to Water's atleast once on your goa trip.

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LOCATION – Ozran Beach, Vagator, Goa
TIMINGS – 4 pm to 12 am

 

Best Restaurants In Goa

1. Calamari

Binge on some exquisite meals only at Calamari at Candolim to have a taste of real authentic Goan cuisines. We highly recommend this place and we're sure you won't go home disappointed as they've got a mouth-watering list of dishes on their menu to satiate your hunger pangs. You'll be missing out on the best food in Goa if you skip out on visiting Calamari on your Goa trip.

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Must haves: Calamari, Cocktails, Prawn Curry, Mocktails, Sea Food, Pizza, Recheado Masala
Cost for two: Rs. 1100
Cuisine: Goan, Seafood
Address: Dando Beach, Beside Santana Beach Resort, Candolim, Goa 403515
Contact: +91 93717 03536

 

2. Thalassa

Perched on a hilltop, overlooking the magnificent Arabian Sea and picturesque small Vagator beach lies the best Restaurant in Goa serving exquisite greek food - Thalassa. Not just a Greek taverna in Goa, but a place where the warmth and sheer happiness of Greek hospitality amalgamate instinctively with the laid back, free and tranquil atmosphere and vibe of Goa. It boasts of having the best sunset view in all of Goa.

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Must haves: Meat Platter, Mocktails, Pizzas, Vegetable Moussaka, Chocolate Cake, Risotto, Baklava
Cost for two: Rs. 1500 
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Address: Small Vagator, Ozran, Vagator, Goa 403509
Contact: 098500 33537

 

3. Pousada By The Beach

Whatever the time of day, nothing could be more pleasurable than taking in breathtaking views in Goa at a Beach Sea Front Restaurant while savoring a delicious meal. The Pousada Beach Sea Front Restaurant caters to both senses. The Pousada Beach Sea Front Restaurant, this a little slice of Goa and an ideal place on the Arabian Sea to enjoy a coastal meal or snack on their private patio or just right for frolicking and sunbathing on the beach. This is the beach where you leave your troubles behind and get away from the world. Binge on the most famous food of Goa at this beautiul restaurant.

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Must haves: Mojito, Peri Peri Prawn, Sea Food, Chaat, Pork Vindaloo, Pasta, Bbq Chicken
Cost for two: Rs. 2000
Cuisine: Continental, Seafood, Goan, Portuguese, Konkan
Address: Gaura Vaddo, Calangute Beach, Calangute, Goa
Contact: +91 9922279265

 

4. La Plage

La Plage is arguably one of the best places to eat in Goa. Located on Ashwem beach and hidden somewhere amongst the palms and bushes, La Plage offers a relaxed tropical atmosphere. Even though it is not the cheapest beach shack in Goa, by far, the menu at La Plage is one of the highly priced restaurants in Goa but is worth every penny. Getting a table here is not a tough task. However, getting a pre-booking will save you the waiting trouble if it’s caused anyhow. This one might burn a hole in your pocket but it's worth trying as it's one of the best restaurants in Goa.

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Must haves: Sea Food, Chocolate Thali, Chicken Burger, Beef Burger, Fries, Beef Carpaccio, Prawn Lollipop
Cost for two: Rs. 800
Cuisine: Seafood, French
Address: Aswem Beach, Near Papa Jolly Hotel, Aswem Road, Morjim, Arambol, Goa
Contact: +91 9822121712

 

Markets In Goa

1. Anjuna Flea Market 

If you want to be a part of the Goan experience as much as you want to chill on the beach. It is a weekly market and if you are in Goa on a Wednesday, please visit this market for a small dose of retail therapy while you are busy raving and chilling around. The history of this market is very interesting. It was started by hippies smoking jumbo joints and selling junk jewelry or jeans to fund their stay in Goa. Nowadays the market has become far more mainstream and the products comes from all over India: sculptures and jewellery courtesy of the Tibetan and Kashmiri traders; colourful Gujarati tribal women selling T-shirts; richly colourful saris, bags and bedspreads from Rajasthan; sacks of spices from Kerala; and the hard-to-miss tribal girls from Karnataka pleading passers-by to ‘come look in my shop.’

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LOCATION: Anjuna
DAY: Wednesday
SPEND YOUR MONEY ON: sculptures, jewellery, spices, bags, t-shirt

 

2. Panjim Market 

Panjim market offers a variety of goods like wines, cashew nuts, local handicrafts, Goan spices and also has a multiplex and an array of eateries in the vicinity. Panjim Market being the largest market in Goa with a combination of street stalls, eateries and malls. You can come here and take away a part of Goa with you.

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LOCATION: Panjim City
DAY: Daily from 7:30 am to late evening
SPEND YOUR MONEY ON: wine, cashew nuts, local handicrafts

 

3. Mapusa Market 

If you want to experience the real and traditional Goan shopping, just go to Mapusa market on a beautiful Friday morning (which is supposed to be a tourist day). It is a bit crowded on Fridays but here you can find just about anything, with items ranging from antiques and Goan pottery to handicrafts, its dried and fresh fish, spices, homemade pickles, fruits, vegetables, Goa’s famous ‘chouricos’ sausages,  textiles, clothing, coir mats, jewellery and much more at a very reasonable price which makes shopping fun and satisfying. Test your bargaining skills here and take away better deals on Goan local merchandise.  

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LOCATION: Mapusa, North Goa
DAY: Friday
SPEND YOUR MONEY ON: Dried and Fresh Fish, Spices, Pickles,Goa’s famous ‘chouricos’ sausages, Antiques, Textiles, and Handicrafts

 

Historical Sites In Goa 

1. Basilica Of Bom Jesus

Famous throughout the Roman Catholic world, the imposing Basilica of Bom Jesus contains the tomb of St Francis Xavier. This structure is famous for The Tomb of St Francis Xavier, kept in a silver casket designed by a 17th-century Florentine jeweler. St Xavier is believed to have miraculous powers of healing, and pilgrims used to come from all over the country till some years back to offer prayers when the body of the saint was ceremoniously exposed once every decade. However, the church authorities have ceased display of the body to guard it against deterioration. Freelance guides at the entrance will show you around for ₹100. 

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Address: Old Goa Rd, Bainguinim, Goa 403402
Timing: 9 am to 6:30 pm

 

2. Aguada Fort

The Aguada Fort is located at a distance of around 18 km. from Panaji. Fort Aguada is located on a hilltop near the mouth of the river Mandovi. The fort was named Aguada which means water in Portuguese because of the presence of three freshwater springs inside. This fort was constructed in the year 1612. During its use, ships would stop at the lower fort for supplies and water. Overlooking the vast expanse of ‘seeming to be endless’ blue waters in front of it, Aguada is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Goa. It receives a lot of tourist traffic all around the year. Reasons are that it’s excellent for sightseeing and also that it stands as a testimony to the glory of the Portuguese empire.

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Address: Fort Aguada Road, Candolim, Goa 403515
Timing: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

 

3. St. Augustine Tower - Church Of St. Augustine

This ancient piece of Old Goa and one of the most magnificent churches in ruins of the only 10 churches left in Goa. Towering at a height of 46 m, the tower was once a belfry and a gorgeous façade of a grand church.  Declared as a world heritage site in 1986, the ruins now attract tourists from around the globe, who visit the site with a preconceived excitement that only amplifies after standing in the middle of history, in real time.

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Address: Church of St. Augustine Ruins, Velha Goa, Goa 403402
Timing: 6:30 am to 12:45 pm and 4:30 to 8:30 pm

 

Unexplored Places In Goa 

1. Cumbarjua Canal

Whether basking on a rock or the uncanny way crocodiles have of resting statue-like, perfectly still – it is a full blown adrenaline rush to encounter these reptiles. A short boat ride through Cumbarjua Crocodile Canal, Goa’s croc heaven, gets your adrenaline pumping as you navigate crocodile-infested waters in style. Cumbarjua is also called Crocodile Dundee, an island with no more than 1000 inhabitants. What’s more, the locals worship these ferocious predators during the new moon in January. If you take a crocodile spotting boat trip, a guide in front of the boat keeps explaining and pointing out to the attractions as you go along. These trips cost around Rs.1000 – 1200 per person and include some food and beverages. It's one of those unexplored places in Goa which will leave you awestruck,

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LOCATION:  The boat ride begins at Cumbarjua, cruising for anywhere between two to three hours through the quiet of the creeks. It is a comfortable motor boat with seating provided. 

 

2. Harvalem Waterfall

If you’ve come to Goa and you want to witness the serene beauty, watching a waterfall infests peace in your body like nothing else. Amongst its numerous tourist spots, Harvalem Waterfall requires a special mention because of it’s supreme beauty. The Harvalem Waterfalls are worth visiting after the monsoon (in October) when they cascade noisily through the surrounding trees, but through the dry winter, the flow is reduced to a trickle. This waterfall is set amidst charming surroundings, with the Rudreshwar temple in its vicinity. You've got to put this destination on your checklist of the unexplored places in Goa.

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LOCATION: Sanquelim can be easily reached by bus from Mapusa (about 2 hours), but you will have to walk for about half an hour or take a motorbike taxi to get out to the caves or the falls.

 

3. Rivona

The Rivona Caves also known as the Pandava caves are situated in the village of Rivona in South Goa at about 5 km northeast of Ponda. They are considered to be dug in the 6th or 7th century by the Buddhist monks. At the Buddhist caves at Rivona, one can see a “Pitha”, which is carved out of laterite and is believed to have served as the seat of the teacher. The caves are also considered one of the few examples of Buddhist influence visible in Goa today. This is one of the unexplored places in Goa which tourists need to add to their go-to places list.

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LOCATION: To get to Rivona is easy by road, Rivona is well connected with Quepem and Margao.

 

 

Places Near Goa 

1. Dudhsagar Falls

Said to be one of the highest waterfalls in India, it attracts a steady inflow of visitors every year, from the coast to the rugged Western Ghats. Sightseeing in Goa can never be complete without visiting Dudhsagar falls. Dudh (milk) Sagar waterfall is a cascade of white water flowing from a peak and it looks magnificent when it falls on the rocks below. Amongst all the beaches and the party culture in Goa, Dudhsagar waterfall is a pleasant exception. It is one of the five highest waterfalls in the country and one of the 100 highest in the world.

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ATTRACTIONS: Sahyadri Spice Farm, Tambadi Surla Mahadev Temple, Mahadeva Temple
DISTANCE FROM GOA: 30 km

 

2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary! More than a sanctuary, it is an ideal jungle resort, a major attraction for school going children and nature lovers. Its mini zoo, sprawling deer park in natural habitat, botanical and rose gardens attract people throughout the year. One of the best places to visit nearby Goa to indulge in a wildlife experience and nature's beauty. 

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ATTRACTIONS: Rose Garden, Lush Forests, Elephant Rides, Exotic Species Of Birds - Bird Watching, Witness - Leopards, Peacocks, Sloth Bear, Pythons, Elephants, Toddy Cat and a variety of snakes
DISTANCE FROM GOA: 33 km

 

3. Terekhol Fort

Located at the Northern tip of Goa, Terekhol Fort was originally constructed in the 17th century by Maharaja Khem Sawant Bhonsle of Sawantwadi. The fort has a Church for the Holy Trinity in the courtyard and it was established in the year 1764. This church later came to be known as the Church of St. Anthony. The church is open for visitors only on special occasions such as the annual feast, which generally falls in the month of May. The fort has been renovated and converted into a hotel called the Fort Terekhol Heritage. The view of the golden sand of Keri Beach and the Terekhol River from the fort will captivate you. Your visit to Goa is literally incomplete without visiting Terekhol Fort. Sought to be one of the best places to visit nearby Goa, Terekhol Fort is the must visit place for everyone. The fort is open on all days of the week from 9 am to 7 pm.

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ATTRACTIONS: Terekhol River, Magnificient views of Keri Beach, Memorial to freedom fighters of Goa, Statue of St Andrew, St. Andrew's Church
DISTANCE FROM GOA: 102 km

 

Casinos In Goa

Goa is one of the few states in India where Gambling is illegal and these are one of the few best Casinos in Goa. 

1. Delton Royale

There are four floors spread more than 40,000 square feet, with 123 gaming tables, a gourmet eatery, an entertainment region, and Kids Zone. The casino has India’s only devoted poker room, and in addition a restrictive space for Indian Flush (Teen Patti). It additionally has an elite Whiskey lounge, with a wonderful choice of single malts and hand-rolled cigars. World-class entertainment is offered here, such as globally known artistscomic drama shows, and live groups. There are VIP gaming suites that visitors can stay and play in too. Deltin Royale is the largest offshore casino in Goa.

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Location: Deltin Royale Casino is located at Noah's Ark, RND Jetty, Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Panjim, Goa 403001

 

Packages: 

Weekday Package (Mon-Thu)
Rs. 3,500 per adult with 2,500 OTPC (Age: 21+)

Weekend Package (Fri-Sun)
Rs. 4,500 per adult with 3,500 OTPC (Age: 21+)

Inclusions:
Multi-cuisine buffet dinner | Unlimited house brand drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) | Live entertainment | Taxes | T&C apply*

Try Your Luck: 24 hours, Seven Days a Week

 

2. Delton Jaqk

Located in Panjim, Goa, Delton Jaqk is one of the best casinos in Goa which is placed at a chosen position in the Mandovi River. Apart from having adult entertainment areas with wine and dinechildren are also taken care of in Jaqk. An onboard ATM, a host of gaming positions, complimentary buffets and bars, attention to detail, and fantastic VIP service makes this the hot spot in Goa, to enjoy an unforgettable casino experience.

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Location: Deltin Jaqk is located at Fisheries Dept. Building Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Fisheries Jetty, Panjim, Goa 403001

 

Packages:

Weekday Package (Monday-Thursday)
₹ 2,500 per adult with 2,000 OTPC (Age: 21+)

Weekend Package (Friday-Sunday)
₹ 3,500 per adult with 2,500 OTPC (Age: 21+)

Inclusions:
Multi-cuisine buffet dinner | Unlimited house brand drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) until midnight | Live entertainment | Taxes | T&C apply*

Try Your Luck: 24 hours, Seven Days a Week

 


Suggested Read: 

Update Your Itinerary With These 50 Amazing Things To Do In Goa

What If You're Told A Goa Trip Can Cost Less Than Your Pocket Money

20 of The Best Restaurants In Goa That Make Us Fall In Love With This Beach City

Sand, Baja, And Baraat: Plan A Destination Wedding In Goa


 

3. Casino Pride

One of the best premium and luxurious floating casino in Goa, Casino Pride plays an endless list of international games which include Roulette, Blackjack, 5 card poker, 3 card poker, and Texas Hold’em poker. Indian games such as Flush, Mini Flush, Rummy, Casino War are also entertained here.

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Location: Casino Pride is located at River Mandovi, Captain Of Ports Jetty, Panjim, Goa 403001

 

Packages:

Monday-Thursday: 1500/-
Friday-Sunday: 2000/-

 

Inclusions:

1. Unlimited food on Buffet.

2. Unlimited Drinks (House Brands) & Snacks while playing on the gaming table.

3. Live Entertainment between 9 pm to 11 pm

4. Special Kids Zones

5. Dress Code: Short & Sleeveless T-Shirts not permitted. Flip Flops and Chappals not allowed

Try Your Luck: 24 hours, Seven Days a Week

 

Best Time To Visit Goa

Mid-November to Mid-February: These are the best months to visit the party capital since the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable. It’s the perfect time to relax on the beaches amidst other tourists who make the most of these three months in Goa. December is the time when Goa witnesses one of its most popular festivals, Sunburn, besides extensive Christmas and New Year celebrations and is home to lakhs of visitors from across the world. You might want to book your hotels in advance since this is the peak season and prices of accommodation go way higher than you would imagine.

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What To Wear In Goa In December

You can wear all the things I have mentioned above, because it's equally hot as it is during other months. However, during the night, it can get a little chilly and unpleasant and trust me you don't want to be shivering while you are partying. So do carry a stole, shrug or a jacket. One/two would work so that your baggage doesn't have to carry that extra weight.

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Best Adventure Sports in Goa

1. Scuba Diving 

Scuba Diving is the best way to explore underwater life. This activity is a must if you want to explore the beauty of underwater and you want to embrace sea life and vegetation under the sea. The best island to do Scuba Diving in Goa is Grande Island. You would be using the best gear and legitimate equipment to help make the experience better and comfortable. The oxygen tank and the tube connected to a mouthpiece helps you breathe a lot better when you are inside the ocean. Feel the adrenaline rush as you dive into the cool ocean water and swim with the colourful fishes. It’s a perfect adventure for the ones who are looking for some thrill and fun in Goa. Dolphin sights are very common while you're discovering marine life in the sea.

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WHERE DOES IT HAPPEN: Grande Island
WHAT'S EXTRAORDINARY: Dolphin Sightings

 

2. Parasailing

Goa is the hub for watersports in the country. The most common water sports enjoyed in Goa are water-skiing, windsurfing, ski-biscuit, parasailing, skibob, snorkelling, sports fishing, water-scooter, motorboat rides, yachting, harpoon fishing, and kayaking. You have to try Jet skiing, banana ride, water skiing, the banana boat if you only have limited time. High fliers amongst the speed lovers can opt for parasailing. There’s a rope about 300 feet long attached to the parasail harness at one end and to the speedboat at the other. When the boat speeds off on the water, the parasailor just takes one or two steps and he is lifted into the air, the parasail lifting behind him.

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WHERE DOES IT HAPPEN:  Palolem, Anjuna, Vagator, Calangute, Mober, Baga, and Miramar.

 

3. White Water Rafting

River rafting happens at Valpoi in Goa at two different time slots - one at 9:30 am and the other one at 2:30 pm. You meet the guides, get your safety equipment and briefing of rules and safety lessons after their vehicle takes you to the river. Everyone above the age of 12 is allowed to do white water rafting. You can trust that you are safe hands because every kind of safety equipment like life jackets and helmets are provided to you as per international standards. This activity can be as long as 2 to 2.5 hours including the transportation. 

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WHERE DOES IT HAPPEN: Valpoi, Goa
TIME SLOTS:
 9:30 am and 2:30 pm

 

4. Waterfall Treks

You will be amused when we tell you this, but believe us that Goa, out of all the places in the country offer you very good terrains for trekking and after all that hard work, it is definitely worth the view you reach the end of a trek. Dudhsagar falls can be reached via multiple routes, but the best view has to be the route you take from Devil's Canyon. The trek of Vagheriare peak is also considered as one of the most exhilarating experiences of Goa. Located at a height of 560m, a day-long trek from the Chorla Ghat Road leads to these peaks. Best time to do these treks is from October to December. However, keep in mind certain things before heading for this trek. Things you'll need should be packed in a trekking bag and should come in handy. Wearing comfortable clothes, carrying plenty of water and energy bars, backpacking the necessary stuff and other essentials like sunscreen lotion, insect repellents, and sunglasses, will make the trek much easier and comfortable.

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WHERE DOES IT HAPPEN: Dudhsagar Falls,  Vagheriare peak
BEST TREKK IN GOA: Udaan Dongor

 

Tie The Knot In Goa 

If you are dreaming of a destination wedding in Goa: We have made a blueprint for your plan. Have a look at it here. 

Dreaming of a destination wedding is something that is not even a unique choice anymore with all the fancy stuff we see on our silver screens. The grand wedding that Aditi had in Ye Jawani Hai Deewani is something that left an imprint on all of our minds. With television shows like Band Baja Baarat and Big Fat Wedding telecasting entire weddings from how the couple met, their families and backgrounds, wedding planning, etc, there is no way you cannot imagine yourself there. If you’ve loved beaches and imagined of living by one or if you want to fill your wedding with the soothing and inspiring Boho beach vibes, a destination wedding in Goa is the thing for you!

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Drink Away Your Worries

1. Feni

The staple drink of the state, Feni is something you can't escape when in Goa unless you've been living under a rock. Just like Potatoes, tomatoes, chilies, pineapples, and the cashew nut came to India with the Portuguese, Feni too was introduced by them in the 16th century. Feni is made majorly from cashew or coconut palm sap, which is then fermented and distilled. The drink is served everywhere from the shacks and cheap motels to high-end bars and five-star hotelsBe careful though if you're trying it for the first time as it's alcohol content is as high as 43%. The drink is served in a lot of variety, like mixed in mocktailslemonadesjuices, etc. The beverage is also known for its properties of curing common cough and cold and does not give a hangover. Feni is distilled twice and the first distillate of cashew feni is Uraak if you are do not like feni and want something tastier. One of the mind-blowing drinks in Goa, Feni is something that Goa would be incomplete without.

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2. Sula Wine

Praised to be one of the best drinks in goa, the Sula wine is one of the very few best products of the infant wine industry in India. They produce all the variety you can think of from reds, whites, and rosé to sparkling and dessert wines. The wine is known for its superior quality and rich taste.

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3. Kings Beer

This beer is exclusive to Goan territory and is exclusively brewed and sold there. With a smoky malt aroma and no aftertaste, it is prepared with maize and tastes delicious with authentic seafood. It is sold only in 330ml with 4.85% alcohol. With it's clean and tasteful temperament, it can be enjoyed while clubbing, on a good move or simply catching the sunset on the beach.

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4. Desmondji Spirits and Liqueurs

The label has taken Goan liqueurs to international standards and produce some really high-quality spirits, liqueurs and cocktail blends made out of sugarcane. Their most popular drinks are 51% oak finished and Agave Gold, recommended for single-malt lovers, it is also used in Mojitos, Daiquiris. Both are made from the Agave plant alike Tequilla. Their drinks range from a smooth 51% to 100% that is to be sipped and savored.

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5. Armada

This spice liqueur won the Gold Outstanding medal at IWSC (the International Wine & Spirit Competition) for two consecutive years, it brought India on the global maps of wines. Its recipe lies with the famous Portuguese royal dynasty who still handicraft it in small batches. Prepared by using Brazilian sugar, Indian spices and Portuguese fruit, made without any artificial flavor or color it has 30% alcohol. It is used in countless mocktails to blend perfection to them. One of the most enjoyed drinks in Goa, Armada has surely tapped some of the finest reviews and good ratings amongst all the alcoholics in the party capital of India. 

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Make Your Belly Rumble In Goa

1. Crab Xec Xec Delicious Curry

The most popular seafood, Crab is the most in demand in the coastal areas. The curry is made with grounded coconut, coriander and dry roasted spices that are added to crab meat. The dish is mostly served with roti, rice or any kind of bread.

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2. Tuna Teriyaki

Fused with the flavors of ginger, garlic and a hint of sugar garnished with soy sauce, tuna teriyaki is a true delight. Probably one of the best seafood you can find in Goa, it would not fail to impress you. The way the fish is marinated makes it rich in taste and aroma. Garnished with rice wine and beans it tastes as good as it looks. 

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3. Prawn Rava Fry

This dish can be the perfect chakna you want. The breadcrumb coated crispy prawns are served dry with the peanuts. Rava Fried Prawns is a traditional Goan dish and you just can't afford to miss it! For all the diet conscious peeps out there, the dish is rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins A and E.

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4. Black Tagliatelle With Salmon

The black tagliatelle is basically pasta with squid ink and salmon garnished in a rich and creamy sauce. Have it once and we bet you'll crave it until it brings you back to Goa. The cream is addicting, leaving your tummy full but your heart always wanting more!

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Rent A Vehicle In Goa

Goa is a destination that you want to explore on your own will and at your own comfort. It can take you up to 15 days to cover probably the whole of Goa or parts of it. For that you need a vehicle that suits your need to travel. Public transport like taxis, buses is also an option but that would only be a hindrance in your zest for exploration. The options are endless if you want to rent a private way of transport.
You can hire self-driven cars, scooty bikes or an open jeep depending upon your preferences. Know everything about it.

Planning a trip to Goa will not drive you nuts with our vehicle renting tips.

 


Suggested Read:

Seas The Day With These 31 Best Beaches In Goa

Up The Ante By Playing Your Dealt Hand At These 10 Best Casinos In Goa

Seas The Day With These 31 Best Beaches In Goa

Experience The 20 Amazing Shacks in Goa For The Best Chilling Scenes


FAQ:

Q: What is it like to visit Goa during the monsoon season?
A: Gone are the days where the monsoon season was deemed to be unsuitable for holiday makers coming to Goa. In fact many domestic tourist flock to Goa, one reason being cheaper deals on hotel accommodation offered this season. On the other hand you will also find relatively empty beaches, congestion free roads on a weekend and great customer service at your disposal.

Q: Is it worth visiting Goa on December 31st?
A: Yes, it surely is. Goa has the best parties that include live music, DJ, amazing food and drinks. What makes Goa even more special during new years is that, such parties create a lavish ambiance for you. A beach party or pool party at these venues can make your New years eve more fun. I have great suggestions that can make your New Years Eve at Goa worth it.

Q: Is a trip to Goa in December worth it?
A: Talking about December specifically, it will be more expensive comparatively for obvious reasons. The money you will save on all the beer you drink, you will end up spending more than that on hotels and local travel. It will be very difficult to find any budget rooms at that time of the year as well. So might have to settle for an expensive option which will be even more expensive in December. Flight ticket prices also see a sudden urge as December approaches.

Q: How much money will I need for Goa in December?
A: An approximate of 15,000 for 3 days is a good amount.

Q: Is July a good month to visit Goa?
A: It is the Monsoon time in Goa where you might encounter medium to heavy rainfalls. However, Goa has its own charm during the monsoons where you can enjoy the lush greenery and nature at its best. It is an off season in Goa. But it is a good season.

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